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Use of chemical weapons in Syria: Statement by Foreign Minister Westerwelle

Aug 26, 2013

Commenting on the current situation in Syria, Foreign Minister Westerwelle said today (26 August) at the annual Conference of the Heads of German Missions at the Federal Foreign Office:

"The mounting evidence that chemical weapons, which are banned under international law, have been used is very disturbing.It is high time that the UN inspectors were granted access. However, the regime has taken a very long time to do anything about this. The reports and images coming out of Syria already speak a clear language.

The use of chemical weapons would be a crime against civilisation. The international community must act should the use of such weapons be confirmed. In this case, Germany will be among those who consider that some consequence will have to be drawn. We are working closely with the United Nations and our allies on this."

Peace and Security

Regional conflicts, fragile or collapsed states, armed conflicts, terrorism and organized crime – all have grave consequences for the people who suffer under them. They also threaten the security and stability of entire regions and peoples.